The Indian Navy has bolstered its coastal defence and anti-submarine warfare capabilities with the induction of INS Androth, the second of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs) being constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. This development highlights the growing success of India’s indigenous shipbuilding programme under the broader framework of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Designed and built entirely in India under the Indian Register of Shipping’s classification standards, Androth is tailored for operations in littoral waters, where threats from hostile submarines are more pronounced. The vessel, named after Androth Island in Lakshadweep, carries strategic symbolism, underlining India’s focus on protecting its vast coastline and island territories.
At 77 meters in length, Androth is notable for being among the largest Indian naval warships to use a Diesel Engine–Waterjet propulsion system, ensuring superior agility and manoeuvrability in shallow waters. Its weapon systems include lightweight torpedoes, indigenous ASW rockets, and advanced shallow-water SONAR technology, making it a formidable asset for detecting and neutralising submarine threats close to shore.
Beyond anti-submarine operations, Androth also enhances the Navy’s coastal surveillance and mine-laying capabilities, thereby strengthening multi-dimensional maritime security. Importantly, over 80% of the ship’s components are sourced domestically, reducing reliance on foreign technology and reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy in defence production.
With the commissioning of Androth, the Navy not only gains a cutting-edge frontline asset but also reaffirms its trajectory towards building a self-reliant and technologically advanced fleet capable of addressing evolving maritime challenges.
